Old Patesians RFC Junior Academy.
A note from the Chairman – Season 2011/2012.
It remains an incredibly exciting and successful time on and off the pitch at Old Pats Junior Rugby Academy as anyone who visits Everest Rd on any Sunday during the season can testify.
There is a thriving Mini section under the supervision of Chris Raymond (chrisraymond124@hotmail.com) starting from 4 to 5 year olds and then when they are ready we begin junior rugby on the first ‘rung of the ladder’ with a u 9 team. Thereafter we run teams at every age group up to Colts and by this time many of the boys have progressed to senior rugby. This is particularly encouraging as many local teams have struggled to field teams at Colts level.
The club draws players from all over Cheltenham and local area and includes pupils from all the main schools, such as Balcarras, Bournside, Pates Grammar, St Edwards and Cheltenham College. And an s our reputation grows from Gloucester schools too! Everyone involved with the Academy is particular grateful of the continued support provided by Cheltenham College. Allowing the Club to use the College pitches and facilities has been a key factor in delivering the benefits of rugby to the local community.
All of our teams quitted themselves well in the County Cup competitions last season with 2 Plate finalists and the Colts contesting the County Cup final. Additionally teams entered various festival matches with many notable results. The number of coaches increased from the previous year with several of the current and former first team players giving of their time to support and train the junior teams. The ratio of 1 coach to 10 players is maintained.
All coaches have had CRB certificated approval, and have attended Child protection and first Aid course, alongside rugby training courses. The club operates and maintains an inclusive, family ethos. All players are given equal opportunity and teams are selected with this in mind.
Junior fees this season are £95 for a full season and this includes a casual Old Pats Hoody for each player and full social membership to Old Pats Sports and Social Club for one parent of guardian.
An exciting new development this season is a new sponsorship arrangement with Savills estate agents. In addition to sponsoring the hoody Savills have also offered a cash back offer for house sales which come from our referral- see the referral scheme here.
I would like to thank the players/parents/sponsors for their continued support, and an even bigger thanks to the coaches and other helpers, who give of their time for free in ensuring we maintain one of the most thriving junior rugby clubs in the county.
We are always looking for volunteers and people prepared to sponsor the teams if you are interested please contact me or our club Manager Chris Downes (ldnz@hotmail.com).
Chairman – Tony Fielding
Email: juniorchairman@oldpats.co.uk
